Good morning, Roanoke.

The Happenings calendar offers a list of holiday events from December 3rd to December 10th in Roanoke—featuring live music, theater, craft shows, and family activities, with organizers advising residents to check with venues for any last-minute changes.

The community will honor Estle E.

Corvin as part of the Tuesdays of Honor series that celebrates his local contributions—organizers said the tribute aims to highlight his lasting impact. The event is set to engage residents and remind them of his legacy.

The Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke held its Giving Tuesday event yesterday to raise funds for wildlife rescue—donors helped support care for injured animals.

The Ronald McDonald House of Charities Southwest Virginia Chapter is preparing for its annual Lights of Hope holiday event and is urging donations on Giving Tuesday.

Corporate leaders Meredith Burrow & Shannon Boothe outlined the needed items and encouraged community support as the event approaches.

WSLS will stream the TV series BUZZ on Thursday, Dec.

4 at 7:30 p.m. on WSLS.com to highlight nonprofit organizations across Southwest Virginia in recognition of Giving Tuesday. Creator Michael Hemphill said viewers will see new episodes each week—showcasing local groups and their efforts.

The Berglund Center in Roanoke will celebrate the 35th anniversary of The Nutcracker with a return of the classic ballet—promising a special holiday performance.

Local audiences are expected to enjoy the traditional show that marks an important milestone in its history.

Roanoke County awarded over $108,000 in grants to 14 local businesses through its Business Equipment Acquisition Program Grant on December 2 to help them purchase new equipment.

Officials said + the awards are part of a pilot program meant to support local business expansion.

Botetourt County residents voiced concerns about Google's proposed data center as they question water usage—potentially up to 8 million gallons a day—and promised economic benefits while officials said final permits and noise studies are still pending.

Southwest Virginia has seen a steady rise in ticks and Lyme disease over the past 20 years as climate change and expanding deer populations have fueled the trend—public health expert Jenny Hall taught Roanoke students proper tick removal techniques at a local fair.

Biologists at Hollins University found that regular burning may reduce tick numbers, but more research is needed to confirm its impact.

Today, the Life Ring Foundation presented a $1.25 million check to Carilion Children's to support pediatric cancer care and blood disorders.

The foundation—started by Kelly Woolwine and his wife Jess after their daughter Charlotte battled liver cancer—has exceeded its original $2 million pledge and now aims to donate up to $4 million.

Holiday Pops Spectacular by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra

7:30-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $31-$56, Children 12 & under $12 — Experience a heartwarming celebration of holiday classics with LaTetra Lewis and the Pops.

Peen: A Tribute to Ween

8:00-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — $ — Experience a lively tribute to the eclectic band Ween featuring The Big Debbies with their unique blend of groove and energy.

Fayetteville Marksmen at Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Berglund Center — $3 beers all game long — Kick off the weekend early with Thirsty Thursday while cheering on the Rail Yard Dawgs.

Roanoke's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9:00 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Check Eventbrite for ticket pricing — Embrace the holiday spirit with contests, games, and cheers in your ugliest sweater at this festive pub crawl.

The Nutcracker by Southwest Virginia Ballet

3-5 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket purchase required — Experience the magic of The Nutcracker with a large cast and live orchestra in this beloved holiday classic.

Handel's Messiah Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Jefferson Center, Roanoke, VA — Ticket info available — Experience the timeless power of Handel’s Messiah through choral and orchestral performance.

Roanoke Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker

2-8 p.m. — Jefferson Center — $10 children's tickets — Experience the enchanting tale of Clara and her Nutcracker with stunning performances and holiday cheer.

The Santa Cares Experience

1 PM — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Free entry — Enjoy seasonal songs with Santa and capture the holiday magic with Cloud Bobby.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Buffet Celebration

5-8 p.m. — The Regency Room — $56 adults, $28 children under 12 — Indulge in a festive buffet dinner in a historic setting this holiday season.

Illuminights Festival

Half-mile of stunning lights — Explore Park — Ticket details upcoming — Experience the magic of over 650,000 lights and festive activities for families.